Saginaw Bay ice fishing has deteriorated to the point that it is no longer safe to go out on any remaining ice. The Coast Guard is warning people to stay off the ice. Several anglers have been rescued off Linwood because the shore ice broke loose and drifted out into the bay. The perch, sucker and steelhead runs have not really started yet. Several area rivers were high, fast, and muddy. With no significant rain in the forecast, the cuts and rivers should be lower by the weekend.
Saginaw River was high, fast and muddy. Anglers are reminded that walleye fishing in the river is closed until April 27. Boat ramps were not yet open but should be soon. It’s probably a little early for the spring perch run, but it will start soon. The river should be more fishable by this weekend.
Quanicassee River the ice on the river has broken up and some anglers were open water fishing. They did not catch much but at least it’s a positive sign of spring.
Au Gres had poor ice conditions.
Au Gres River the lower end of Whitney Drain below the Singing Bridge had a little open water where a couple steelhead were caught.
Rifle River had flood warnings due to ice jams.
Pine River was starting to open-up and should be fishable by the weekend.
Outer Saginaw Bay
Tawas did not have much happening in the way of ice fishing.
Tawas River the lower river was opening-up. A couple steelhead and suckers were caught on spawn.
Fishing Tip: Storing ice fishing equipment for next season
You may want to think about getting ready to store your ice fishing equipment. The key is doing it properly, so you’ll be ready to hit the ice next winter! Here is a checklist of things to do:
- If you have an auger, check for any damage and dry all the blades before storing it. You may want to consult your power auger’s manual to know how to appropriately handle any leftover gas and how to protect the engine.
- Remove batteries from any electronics to prevent any potential damage from leaking batteries.
- Make sure your portable shelter is completely clean and dry before storing. You may want to put some moth balls in it or hang it to keep pests at bay.
- Take a full inventory of your rods, reels and tackle to see what you might need/want next year. Also remove all bait or line from your hooks and lures for storage and make sure everything is dry.
By the time everything is properly stored you’ll be itching to get out on your favorite stream, river or lake for some spring fishing!